Double Crossed

Main Themes and Topics

In "Double Crossed," Matthew Avery Sutton explores the intricate intersection of espionage and faith during World War II. Sutton delves into the lives of Christian missionaries who were recruited for covert operations by the Office of Strategic Services under "Wild" Bill Donovan. The book examines how these individuals balanced their religious convictions with the morally ambiguous world of espionage, exploring themes of sacrifice, duty, and the expansion of religious influence within the context of global conflict. The narrative highlights the extent to which these missionaries were willing to go, including participating in bombings and assassinations, to support Franklin Roosevelt's vision of global freedom of religion.

Writing Style and Tone

Sutton's writing is both engaging and meticulously detailed, weaving historical fact with compelling narrative storytelling. His tone is one of scholarly authority mixed with an acute sense of the dramatic, ensuring that even the most complex historical interactions are accessible and gripping for the reader. By presenting the personal stories of individuals such as John Birch, William Eddy, and Stewart Herman alongside the larger geopolitical events of World War II, Sutton creates a powerful and immersive reading experience.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

"Double Crossed" uncovers the hidden alliance between Christian missionaries and espionage during World War II. The book follows a cadre of religious activists who were employed by the Office of Strategic Services to carry out covert operations against Axis powers. These missionaries skillfully navigated the treacherous spy world, often grappling with ethical dilemmas as they took on dangerous missions that included sabotage, intelligence gathering, and guerrilla warfare. Their contributions were crucial in shaping the outcome of the war and the post-war establishment of foreign policy organizations such as the CIA, illustrating a unique and little-known chapter in history.